Week 18 NFL Drama: Coaches, Records, and Big Decisions

USASat Jan 03 2026
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Week 18 of the NFL season is packed with excitement. Four division titles and the top seeds in both conferences are still up for grabs. This week, the spotlight is on Myles Garrett, who is just one sack away from breaking the single-season record. The Cleveland Browns will face the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. If Garrett doesn't get that record, how will his season be remembered? The heat is on for coaches with warm seats. Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh and Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin could be in trouble if their teams lose the AFC North title clash on Sunday night. The Bucs and Panthers are also playing for the NFC South title, and the winner might have a losing record. This raises questions about the fairness of the current playoff seeding system.
Our NFL writers have strong opinions on these topics. Zak Keefer believes teams shouldn't be punished for playing in tougher divisions. Jeff Howe thinks division titles should carry more weight. Mike Sando argues that the best solution is to win your division. The NFC West and the top seed in the NFC are also on the line when the 49ers and Seahawks meet. Kyle Shanahan could be in the running for Coach of the Year if his 49ers win. Myles Garrett's season has been impressive, but he plays for a team that won't make the playoffs. If he breaks the record, it will be celebrated, but it would mean more if the stakes were higher. The Chargers and Bills are resting starters, which raises questions about whether resting players is always the smart move in Week 18. The Steelers and Ravens are playing for the AFC North title on Sunday night. The loser's season will end, and there could be big changes ahead.
https://localnews.ai/article/week-18-nfl-drama-coaches-records-and-big-decisions-9a256bbd

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